Darjeeling is gearing up to host one of the biggest festivals in recent times during the run-up to Christmas and New Year celebrations by bringing together tea, tunes, strings, culture, movies, art, races and more.

The Darjeeling Police on Friday announced that the Darjeeling MELOtea festival will be a five-day event starting from December 18 to 22, this year. MELOtea is inspired by the words “melody” and “tea”.

The event was a three-day affair last year.

“The event is being held in collaboration with Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) and is an effort to boost tourism, music, tradition and handicraft,” said Praween Prakash, SP, Darjeeling.

The musical band competition of the Darjeeling MELOtea fest, which attracts bands from across the country, carries a total prize money of ₹18 lakh.

“This year we have a new addition as we are holding a competition for Nepali bands and also for solo performers with original compositions,” said Prakash.

The tagline for the fest is: “Tea, tunes and strings”.

Traditional food and cultural performances will be held throughout the festival days apart from other events like dog shows and rap shows.

The GTA is also planning to introduce day hiking in 13 places across the hills and have villagers provide authentic experiences of the culture and tradition of the place.

The Darjeeling Police Hill Marathon, which attracts international tourists, will be held on December 22 and participants can compete in the 21-kilometer and 10-kilometer races.

A total prize money of ₹10.3 lakh is up for grabs for runners.